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property overview

The Gothic Cologne Cathedral took some 600 years to build.

Many hotels claim to be in the heart of a city, but in the case of Cologne's Excelsior Hotel Ernst, it's truly the case. The property sits opposite the Cologne Cathedral, a stunning Gothic extravaganza and world heritage landmark that took some 600 years to build. Opened in 1863, the hotel has a long history as the city’s most luxurious hotel. The city’s best shopping is within walking distance and the fairgrounds are just across the Rhine river. Suites, each uniquely decorated with rich fabrics and vibrant colors, overlook the Cathedral. Taku, the Asian-restaurant, recently awarded “best international restaurant in Germany”, makes an ideal dining experience for business or leisure and draws guests and locals alike, while Hanse Stube, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, offers contemporary French cuisine at its best.
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Why Leaders Club?

Awards & Accolades

January 2012Leading Hotels of the WorldVoted # 25Guest Recognition Award of Excellence

December 2011Michelin GuideOne Star for TakuMichelin Star

February 2012TripadvisorVoted #5Traveler's Choice Award for Service

We Recommend

What to Buy

4711 Kölnisch Wasser (Eau de Cologne)

For the best selection of refreshing, citrus-scented 4711 Kölnisch Wasser—the original Eau de Cologne—visit 4711 Haus, where it was first produced in the 18th century. Glockengasse 4711. www.4711.com.

Best Neighborhood Walk

Altstadt (Old Town)

Cologne’s reconstructed Altstadt is filled with surprises, including remnants of ancient Roman streets and walls. Enjoy it while strolling beside the mighty Rhine on the popular Rhine Promenade.

Best Cultural Secret

Carnival in Cologne

Cologne’s pre-Lenten Carnival, held in February or March, is a secret to everyone but the Germans, who throng the streets to enjoy masked balls, a huge parade and general delirium.

Best Activity/Excursion

Climbing Cologne Cathedral

For an unforgettable experience, climb the 515-foot-high south tower of Cologne’s Gothic cathedral, the largest and tallest in northern Europe, and enjoy unparalleled views of the city and surrounding Rhineland. www.koelner-dom.de.

Best Shopping Neighborhood

Hohe Strasse and Schildergasse

You’ll find everything you need on these two pedestrian-only streets in the heart of Cologne, reputedly the most visited shopping streets in Europe.

Best Restaurant for a Celebration

La Vita

The rich, warm colors of Italy complement the fine Italian food and wine served at this welcoming restaurant in downtown Cologne. Magnusstraße 3. (49-221) 925-7740; www.lavita-koeln.de.

Museum Must-See

Museum Ludwig

Cologne’s showplace for contemporary art, Museum Ludwig features nearly every major artist and art movement of the 20th and 21st centuries. Heinrich-Böll-Platz. www.museum-ludwig.de.

Top Day Trip

Train and Boat tour of the Rhine

Take the train to Bingen, famed for its vineyards, and return to Cologne on a boat that cruises along the most spectacular stretch of the castle-studded Rhine.

Best City Secret

Unsicht Bar Restaurant

There is absolutely no light in this experiential “dark dining” restaurant where the waiters are blind and the darkness stimulates the taste buds. Im Stavenhof 5-7. (49-221) 200-5910; www.unsicht-bar-koeln.de.

Why go now?

kölner lichter

July 11, 2015

Germany’s largest musical firework illuminate the nocturnal sky over the Rhine. Special ambiance event appeals to visitors of all ages.